For Parents

HOW CAN I PROMOTE OPTIMAL INFANT MENTAL HEALTH IN MY CHILD?

As a parent or caregiver of a young child you have a special role in helping that child develop into a happy, healthy person. One way to do that is to be aware of the many things that can impact a child’s mental health.

From before a child is born, they are connecting with those around them. In the womb, as an infant, as a moving toddler and as a curious preschooler, children are always engaging, learning and making sense of their world. As a caregiver, here are some ways to encourage optimal mental health:

Provide nurturing routines

Meet your child’s needs with consistency and predictability

Allow the freedom to safely explore while being present as a ‘safe base’ for them to return to you

Accept the expression of a range of emotions in your child

Learn about what to expect at different ages and stages of your child’s life

Nurture your own optimal mental health and ask for help when you need it

Here are some links with information for you about how to nurture your child to encourage optimal infant mental health: